Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming an increasingly important tool in all walks of life. AI’s ability to analyze data, identify patterns, and make predictions to improve learning and problem-solving has been a game-changer. Healthcare—and eye care in particular—is no exception, as AI is proving to be a valuable tool in helping professionals gain new insights and assist patients in achieving improved diagnoses and results.
Current Uses of AI for Eye Care
Some applications for AI in eye disease detection include:
AI is already being used to detect Diabetic Retinopathy, a complication of diabetes that affects the blood vessels in the retina. If not treated early, this condition can cause vision loss or even blindness. AI, however, has started to assist professionals in determining whether someone has the early signs of the condition.
AI is also being utilized to detect signs of glaucoma, a common issue for older adults. Like diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that can cause blindness if not detected and treated early. With optic nerve images, AI has been used to identify early signs of glaucoma, enabling diagnosis and treatment.
AI can help address blindness and vision impairment in various ways. Early detection, diagnosis, and personalized treatment based on specific patient needs are just the start. AI will also be key in assistive technologies, including text-to-speech capabilities, smart glasses, and object recognition software.
Potential Uses of AI in Eye Care
As technology continues to evolve, AI will be able to screen ophthalmic diseases with more efficiency and diagnose eye conditions automatically without human intervention. This will make it easier for doctors to spend time treating patients rather than diagnosing them, customize treatment plans, perform remote consultations, and more. AI has the potential to even assist researchers in developing new treatments for previously untreatable conditions.
AI in eye care will continue to improve as long as deep learning evolves. However, AI still has many limitations. Seeing your eye care professional for eye checkups remains critical to maintaining your vision’s health. The Vision Plan from AMBA and your association covers annual WellVision checkups and features many significant advantages, including 100% coverage for most lenses (even progressives!) and thousands of nationwide in-network providers. Sign up today – acceptance is GUARANTEED! – or call 866-979-0497.